Sabah targets 25% meat self-sufficiency by 2030

Sabah, Malaysia aims to increase its meat self-sufficiency level from 9% to at least 25% by 2030 as part of efforts to reduce reliance on food imports. State Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister Datuk Jamawi Jaafar said the ministry is working to strengthen local production and improve food security amid rising shipping costs and global uncertainties.

According to a report by Daily Express, rising shipping costs linked to the Red Sea crisis and global tensions have made ensuring a stable food supply an increasingly important responsibility. Mr Jamawi discussed the target during a forum held in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the Sabah Department of Veterinary Services.

Poultry sector highlights supply gap

The state’s poultry industry illustrates some of the challenges involved in reducing import dependence. Although Sabah produces enough whole chickens to meet local demand, it continues to import about five million kilograms of chicken parts each month, mainly wings and thighs.

According to Mr Jamawi, increasing capacity for whole chickens does not automatically increase the supply of individual cuts. He noted that demand for specific chicken parts remains higher than available local supply.

The minister also addressed concerns over chicken-part smuggling. Following discussions in Thailand, he said Malaysia does not recognize China as a source of poultry products because of bird flu concerns and standards set by the World Organization for Animal Health.

At the same time, the number of Thai factories approved to supply Sabah has increased from 10 to 17. Mr Jamawi said the goal is to ensure safe and halal food sourced from facilities verified by auditors.

Investment focuses on production capacity

Sabah is also upgrading livestock infrastructure as part of its production strategy. The Veterinary Services Department is improving 12 slaughterhouses under its management, while another 18 privately operated facilities are also being upgraded.

A poultry production center on the West Coast is undergoing improvements as well. The upgrades are intended to increase the production of chicks, ducklings and quail chicks.

These initiatives accompany broader efforts to strengthen local livestock production. The ministry’s focus spans both production facilities and breeding capacity.

Feed remains largely imported

Feed remains an important part of the state’s supply picture. Jamawi said about 95% of chicken feed, mainly corn, is imported. In response, the ministry plans to expand local grain corn production.

The minister also noted that Sabah already supplies all of its duck, duck egg and fresh milk requirements, although the state continues to import UHT milk. Meanwhile, goats can still be imported because locally produced goat meat is often considered too tough for roast dishes. Further studies are planned to improve product quality and better meet consumer expectations.

As Sabah works toward its 2030 target, the state’s approach combines import management, infrastructure upgrades and efforts to expand local agricultural production.